SHOWER HEAD

GROUP PROJECT

This group project presents the design of a shower head unit that is able to contain two cosmetic products such as shower gel and shampoo within its head. The gels can be released and dispersed at the same time as the water; making it easier for the potential user to shower. The design made use of the venturi system that allows fluid to flow smoothly through a constricted section of pipe.

The main objective of the project was to design a product to be used within the household that would benefit the potential user. The sole objective of our product was to make it easier for people to shower by including switches on the shower head that released gels at the same time as the water. This prevents the user from having to bend over and reach for gels which could be hugely beneficial for people with bad backs; in particular the elderly.

In carrying out the research and development of the design, my colleagues and I divided the work in the following way. Iain assumed the lead role of designing and developing the chosen concept, including technical illustrations, whilst Graham was responsible for all CAD work. I was responsible for writing and compiling the report, whilst Esther and Dawit worked together on the presentation. We all carried out at least two sections of research each and all developed at least one concept drawing. Although each of us had a lead role in performing in our specific areas, we worked collaboratively in checking our progress and troubleshooting any problems we came across.

This report was requested by a senior lecturer at the University of Bolton as part of our studies. By compiling this report and carrying out the design process the aim is to improve our knowledge of the subject and hopefully give us subject specific skills that will be of huge benefit to us in the future.

This project has discussed the development of a shower head unit with built in gel dispensers. The objectives of the group were to develop a successful design using the most appropriate technology and materials available; keeping the cost down at the same time. With reference to the secondary PDS, it is fair to say that these objectives have been met. The relevant technology was identified and incorporated into the design; in this case the venturi system that was used to pump the water and the gels out of the system. In terms of materials, the aim was to find those that had to suit plenty of criteria. They needed to be lightweight, have excellent resistance to both water and temperature change, as well as being fairly cheap. Many materials were looked at during the research stage but none seemed to match the criteria as well as ABS, which also gave the product a glossy finish. The intended target was to keep the price down to under £50, preferably selling to the consumer at a price of around £30. At a cost of £32.55p per unit, this target has been achieved.

The project has introduced us to a number of important topics during the design process. Throughout the whole of the project time management was key to our success. We were introduced to a programme that enabled us to plan our time well and divide tasks between each other. During the research stage, area’s that have previously never been looked at needed to be considered, such as the methods that were going to be used and correspondence over the phone. A technical design also needed to be adapted in order to suit the needs of the rapid prototyping machine, enhancing skills and knowledge of both CAD software and rapid prototyping.

How the group worked as a whole was vital to the success of this project. After in depth planning and regular group meetings, successful results were achieved. Communication between the whole group has improved over the course of the project and each member strived to achieve the results they were looking for.

Special thanks to all the group members:- Andrew Howard,Esther Iteman, Dawit Tesfatzion, Graham Cox.